Old Saint Joseph, what’s in your basket?/ Fresh grass, fresh violets/ nests, birds, and joyful sun!/ In the smallest nook/ I have a little flake of snow,/ a plate of fritters/ and so many other beautiful things!/ As spring arrives/ I sing a prayer to all/ the prayer of love/ to Jesus, our Lord. (Teresa Romei Correggi)

This poem captures the most human aspect of the March 19th celebration honoring the figure of Patriarch Saint Joseph, husband of Mary and foster father of Jesus. In its own way, it narrates the unfolding of celebrations across much of Sicily, emphasizing in simple words that it’s a festival of the people — let’s not forget Joseph was a craftsman — where local delicacies are savored and when, perhaps, the last snow of spring has fallen.